03 Oct Think You Understand Physical Therapy? Fact vs Fiction

Like anything else in health care, it can be hard to tell fact from fiction when you’re trying to navigate providers and need physical therapy care. Well-meaning friends, co-workers, and of course the internet can muddy the water so you don’t always know the right step to take first or how to go about seeking the right care. Luckily, it’s easier than you think to find quality care that will get you moving again: we give you some myth vs. reality below to show you just how easy it can be.

Myth: I have to see my doctor before I can see a physical therapist.

Fact: Thanks to direct-access, you can make an appointment with a physical therapist first. Your PT will work with your insurance company as well as your doctor, should a referral for future/continued visits be necessary.

Myth: Your doctor gives the physical therapist treatment instructions.

Fact: Your physical therapist is typically a doctor in his/her own right, whether of sports medicine, physical therapy, or other doctoral degree. Your PT is a highly-trained medical professional who will work with your diagnosis as well as his/her own exam to determine the course of physical therapy that will lead to the best outcome.

Myth: Physical therapy is only for injury or surgical recovery.

Fact: Physical therapy is also great at helping prevent injury and the need for surgery. At Body One, we have programs that focus exclusively on addressing injury prevention and improving body movement patterns, balance, strength, etc.

Myth: You wait until after surgery for physical therapy.

Fact: It is the current standard of care for many surgical repairs to have patients undergo a short course of PT before surgery. The physical therapy has been shown to increase the odds for a successful surgical outcome and improved recovery.

Myth: A chiropractor and a physical therapist are pretty much the same thing.

Fact: A chiropractor has a specific focus on spinal alignment and passive adjustments. A physical therapist has a broader focus on the musculoskeletal system and utilizes both passive and active treatment to achieve improved range of motion, strength, balance, body movement, and pain reduction.

If you’re looking for quality, compassionate care you’ll find it at Body One Physical Therapy. We’re locally-owned with four locations serving Central Indiana, making it easy to find one that suits you: North Indianapolis, South Indianapolis, Fishers, and Zionsville. Don’t wait to feel better, call us today and let’s get started on your recovery!